Families are encouraged to come in, sign up, and participate in our Read-a-thon as a start to reading 1000 books to their kids before kindergarten. There will be volunteers available to read also. We’ll be sharing ways to track your progress, how it helps set your child up for success, and more! More info on the program below!

The *1000 Books Before Kindergarten* program offers a wealth of benefits for young children and their families. This early literacy initiative encourages parents and caregivers to read 1,000 books with their children before they start kindergarten, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

1. **Boosts Early Literacy Skills**: Research shows that the number of words a child is exposed to in their early years directly impacts their language development and reading readiness. By reading 1,000 books, children are exposed to a rich variety of vocabulary, sentence structures, and storytelling styles, which enhances their comprehension, listening skills, and ability to recognize letters and sounds.

2. **Strengthens Parent-Child Bond**: Reading together provides an opportunity for parents and caregivers to spend quality time with their children. This shared activity promotes bonding and emotional connection, fostering a sense of security and comfort.

3. **Promotes Cognitive Development**: Engaging with books helps young minds develop critical thinking, memory, and concentration. Repetitive reading of familiar stories helps children remember details, predict outcomes, and make connections between different concepts.

4. **Encourages a Love for Reading**: By making reading a regular and enjoyable part of daily life, the program nurtures a positive attitude towards books and learning. This love for reading can persist into later school years, making it easier for children to excel academically.

5. **Prepares Children for School**: Children who participate in the *1000 Books Before Kindergarten* program often enter school with stronger literacy skills, which can give them an academic advantage. They are more likely to be confident readers, comfortable with books, and ready to take on the challenges of formal education.

6. **Builds a Lifelong Habit**: The program helps instill the habit of reading early on. Children who grow up in an environment rich with books are more likely to continue reading for pleasure and knowledge throughout their lives.

The *1000 Books Before Kindergarten* program is a simple yet powerful way to give children the best possible start in life. It not only supports their academic growth but also strengthens family bonds and encourages a lifelong love for reading.